7 Best Lenses to Take on an African Safari 2025
I am often asked “what lenses to take on an African safari?” Experience reveals that the right camera lens can make or break your wildlife photography experience.
With unpredictable wildlife sightings and the expansive African landscapes, choosing the right lenses ensures you’re ready for every shot—be it a lion lounging in the grasslands or a bird soaring above.
Here’s a list of the best lenses you should consider taking on your African safari.
Seven Top Safari Lens Choices
1. 70-200mm f/2.8 Lens – Versatility and Speed
The 70-200mm f/2.8 lens is a must-have for its versatility. Its focal range is ideal for mid-range wildlife shots, such as capturing a lion pride from the safety of your vehicle. With a large f/2.8 aperture, you’ll achieve beautiful subject isolation even in low light conditions, like early morning safaris or late evening game drives. It’s also reliable for action shots when animals are on the move.
Why it’s great:
- Excellent in low light
- Balanced for handheld use
- Perfect for medium-distance wildlife
2. 100-400mm Lens – Ideal for Longer Reach
When animals keep their distance, a 100-400mm lens allows you to get closer without disturbing them. With its versatile focal length, you can capture detailed shots of a giraffe from afar or the texture on an elephant’s trunk. Pair it with a crop sensor camera for even more zoom power!
Why it’s great:
- Lightweight compared to super-telephoto lenses
- Optimal for subjects at varying distances
- Great for versatile shooting styles (landscapes or wildlife)
3. 300mm f/2.8 Prime Lens – Crystal-Clear Long Shots
This prime lens is the premier choice for professional wildlife photographers. Its fixed focal length ensures sharper images and an unbeatable depth of field, perfect for capturing dramatic close-ups of predators or intricate bird feather details. Though it’s heavier than other options, its performance is unmatched.
Why it’s great:
- Superior sharpness and image quality
- Ideal for action and wildlife portraits
- Handles fast-moving subjects with precision
4. Wide-Angle Lens (16-35mm) – For Scenic Landscapes
African safaris aren’t just about wildlife; the landscapes are equally breathtaking. A wide-angle 16-35mm lens lets you capture the expansive savannahs, dramatic sunsets, and even wildlife within the context of their environment. It’s perfect for storytelling in your shots.
Why it’s great:
- Excellent for landscapes and environmental portraits
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Adds depth and scale to your imagery
5. 400mm or 600mm Prime Lens – For Super-Telephoto Power
If birds or skittish wildlife are on your target list, a 400mm or 600mm prime lens is your best bet. These super-telephoto lenses offer stunning reach and unparalleled image quality, ensuring you capture every detail of your subject no matter how far away it is.
Why it’s great:
- Exceptional for distant subjects
- Uncompromising sharpness
- Works beautifully with teleconverters
6. 105mm or 70mm Macro Lens – For Close-Up Details
For capturing the smaller stars of the safari—think insects, flowers, or unique textures—a macro lens is essential. A 105mm or 70mm macro lens allows you to focus on objects up close, creating stunningly detailed shots of things most safari-goers overlook.
Why it’s great:
- Optimal for close-up shots
- Lightweight and easily packable
- Unique perspectives on safari
7. 1.4x or 2x Teleconverter – Extend Your Reach Without the Bulk
If you don’t want to carry multiple lenses but still need that extra reach, a teleconverter is the perfect accessory. Pair it with a compatible telephoto lens to gain additional magnification while keeping your kit lightweight and manageable.
Why it’s great:
- Budget-friendly option for added magnification
- Lightweight and portable
- Pairs well with telephoto lenses
Final Tip for Your Safari Kit
Choose lenses based on the wildlife you plan to see and the safari conditions. For example, in open savannah areas, a telephoto lens is vital for spotting distant game. If you’re venturing into denser areas, like Botswana’s Okavango Delta, a versatile zoom lens may be more practical.
Before your trip, consider renting lenses to test them out if you’re unsure. Make sure to pack lens hoods, protective filters, and cleaning kits—dust is an unavoidable safari companion!
Lastly, capturing great photos isn’t just about gear—it’s about being patient, observant, and respecting the wildlife around you. With the right lenses and mindset, your African safari can become a gallery of memories that last a lifetime.
